GoTyme Bank, foodpanda launch loan program for MSMEs

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GoTyme Bank and foodpanda have joined forces to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) within foodpanda’s online food and grocery delivery platform. This collaboration offers partner vendors flexible financing for working capital, providing them the financial boost they need to sustain their businesses.

The loan program directly addresses the financing challenges faced by MSMEs in today's economic climate, characterized by rising operational costs and lack of access to funding.

It gives online food delivery entrepreneurs easy access to capital at competitive interest rates with a simple application and repayment process. The program also complements foodpanda’s existing “Negosyo Like a Panda” initiative, which offers business loans to partner vendors to fuel their business growth.

Standing: Shern Teo, GoTyme Bank Head of Strategy and Lending, John Kane, GoTyme Capital Asia Head, Jan Mikee Regalario, foodpanda Philippines Fintech Lead, Valerie Alivia, foodpanda Philippines Fintech Manager

Sitting: Albert Tinio, GoTyme Bank Co-CEO, Nate Clarke, GoTyme Bank President and CEO, Leopoldo De Castro Jr., foodpanda Philippines Finance Director, Shaun Princess Opulencia-Malalad, foodpanda Philippines Head of Fintech

Championing Filipino MSMEs

GoTyme Bank, a collaboration of Tyme, a multi-country digital banking group, with members of the Gokongwei Group, is the country’s fastest-growing bank, with 4.5 million customers, having operated for less than two years.

foodpanda is a subsidiary of global food delivery leader Delivery Hero, an on-demand food and grocery platform headquartered in Singapore. It is committed to delivering customers their favorite meals quickly. Today it is the largest food and grocery delivery platform in Asia, operating in 11 Asian markets comprising thousands of restaurants across 400 cities. It was launched in the Philippines in 2014, and today delivers meals from curated local restaurants to food lovers nationwide. Currently operating in 150 cities and municipalities, the platform continues its expansion across the country.

This partnership aligns with GoTyme Bank’s mission to support Filipino entrepreneurs by bridging the credit gap for MSMEs, which form a growing portion of its customer base.

GoTyme Bank, together with foodpanda, empowers MSMEs to thrive by streamlining the loan application process and offering flexible repayment options. Through this partnership, foodpanda partner merchants can focus on their core operations while enjoying the convenience of paying more during peak seasons and less during lean times. This tailored approach helps MSMEs optimize their cash flow and achieve their financial goals.

Nate Clarke, GoTyme Bank President and CEO and Leopoldo De Castro Jr., 

foodpanda Philippines Finance Director

“We are committed to leveraging GoTyme’s expertise in digital banking and MSME lending,” says Lhecks De Castro, foodpanda Philippines finance director. “Since majority of our partner vendors come from the MSME sector, our goal is to offer innovative and accessible loan products specifically designed for them. This partnership goes beyond digital inclusion for our MSME partners; it prioritizes their financial empowerment.”

GoTyme Bank President and CEO Nate Clarke says he appreciates foodpanda’s recognition of GoTyme’s dedication to supporting MSMEs. “Through this exciting partnership, we look forward to providing entrepreneurs with the crucial financial support they need to achieve their dream business,” he says.

Legarda calls for comprehensive legislative oversight and budget integration of women, peace, and security initiatives

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Senator Loren Legarda championed the call for integrating Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) initiatives into national policies and budget frameworks at the International Conference on Women, Peace, and Security (ICWPS), held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC), Pasay City from October 28 to 30, 2024.

The event marks the upcoming 25th anniversary of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1325 next year, which highlights women’s roles in peacebuilding and security. The Senator recalled that during last year’s Department of Foreign Affairs budget deliberations, she noticed that the request for initial seed capital for the ICWPS was listed merely as a side note and was not prioritized.

“Understanding its importance, I made it my own amendment to the national budget to ensure these remarkable women could come together,” Legarda shared.

This initiative by the four-term laid the groundwork for a whole-of-government commitment to host the conference in the Philippines.

“That is the mark of a woman when the woman looks into the details and sees the import of things which are essential. Don’t they say that what is essential is often invisible to the eye? Well, I saw it amidst their pile of unrequested requests, unasked for because there was no remaining budget,” Legarda said.

During the roundtable discussion with other parliamentarians, Legarda addressed a critical question: “How can parliamentarians better advocate for the adoption, review, and implementation of National Action Plans on WPS?”

Legarda identified two key responsibilities of the Philippine Senate. First, she emphasized the oversight role of Congress in ensuring laws are effectively funded and implemented, recognizing that many well-intentioned policies fall short in execution.

“Our role is not just policy-making but ensuring oversight on policies already enacted,” Legarda explained.

“While we have enacted so many laws in many decades, some of these laws are unfunded or underfunded or perhaps even not effectively and efficiently implemented. The oversight function of Congress, and in this respect, the Philippine Senate, is very important. The oversight function, the relevance of laws already enacted, the nuances of revising or amending it based on societal changes and global challenges, that's important.”

“Since 1998, I have seen laws with good intentions and funding, but why are people still poor, deprived, vulnerable and impoverished? Because the implementation is lacking. And this is not to cast aspersion on any administration or in any executive branch of government. It is just that we need to see the bigger and the minutest detail of the picture—in how we must pre-position goods, establish gender-responsive evacuation centers, ensure safe hospitals and schools, and in how women, peace, and security must be understood by every grade school child.”

Second, Legarda highlighted the power of legislative and budgetary influence, advocating for WPS to be mainstreamed across the national budget and emphasizing that WPS initiatives should extend beyond the traditional 5% Gender and Development (GAD) allocation.

“For two, three decades ago, we have had the GAD, where 5% must be spent. I think that needs to be updated. Why only 5%? WPS must be mainstreamed in the 5 trillion national budget, just as climate change, adaptation, mitigation and resilience, and disaster risk reduction must be mainstreamed in the whole national budget. So must Women, peace, and security are all cogs in a whole wheel that you cannot take out,” Legarda stressed.

“Yes, we need the policy. Yes, we perform oversight. Yes, we have the financing. But we must ensure that those who are implementing all the policies we do will implement it efficiently and effectively. We must have the tools to measure the impact if lives have improved well and by how many percent. It should not just be quantitative, but focused on the quality of life of Filipinos,” Legarda concluded.

Legarda’s support and participation in the ICWPS is a powerful reminder of the potential for policy-driven change in the lives of women and girls in communities. Her commitment to integrating WPS into national and legislative processes reflects her broader advocacy for peace, security, and inclusive governance, further establishing the Philippines as a global leader in advancing the WPS agenda.

Experience Banwa Private Island’s Culinary Journey

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Banwa Private Island Hosts Exclusive Dinner in Manila

(Manila, Philippines)  – Banwa Private Island recently brought the flavors of paradise to Manila, hosting an exclusive dinner for the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in the Philippines - France. The event, titled "A Taste of Banwa," showcased the island's culinary mastery and commitment to sustainability.

Guests were treated to a gourmet feast crafted by award-winning Chef Martin Kaspar, featuring the freshest, locally sourced ingredients from Banwa Private Island's organic farm. The menu highlighted the island's unique flavors and culinary traditions, leaving guests delighted and impressed.

The event was held in the Rizal Room at Manila House, Bonifacio Global City. Attendees enjoyed a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, complemented by the unique and special destination dining experiences that Banwa Private Island offers.

Photo shows the mouthwatering 15-hour Lamb Shoulder Confit, paired with Polenta with

Goat Cheese and farm-fresh mushrooms from Banwa Private Island’s Tumarbong Organic Farm.

Beyond the culinary delights, the event also showcased Banwa Private Island's dedication to sustainability. Organic biodiversity is paramount to every aspect of life on the island. Committed to offering unforgettable sustainable travel experiences, Banwa Private Island meticulously restores lush habitats.

Banwa Private Island's Tumarbong Organic Farm grows all the produce for both guests and the island team. The farm utilizes 100% natural alternatives to pesticides, nourishing the soil with organic compost. Eva Joy Tumagan, Farm Manager of Banwa Private Island, shared, "We've come a long way since we started with just a few crops. Today, we're proud to harvest more than 30 different types of fruits, vegetables and herbs, all grown sustainably on our farm. We're committed to providing the freshest, organic ingredients to support Banwa Private Island's culinary offerings.'"

Photo shows Judith A. Los Baños-Abalos, Marketing Communications Consultant (2nd from left)

and Catherine B. Villanueva, Head of Sales (6th from right), both from Banwa Private Island,

welcoming guests from CCI France to an unforgettable evening.

Photo shows Banwa Private Island’s Culinary Ambassador, Chef Martin Kaspar showcasing

the fresh, local ingredients that inspired the exquisite 4-course menu.

Banwa Private Island creates menus and dining experiences using local ingredients in international and Filipino dishes. Whatever your preferred cuisine, the island’s team of chefs will be sure to provide just the type and style of food you want, when you want it. Fresh fish is locally available in abundance, and the majority of fresh fruits and vegetables come from Tumarbong Organic Farm located just a few miles away on mainland Palawan. Halal, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Mediterranean, Vegetarian, Vegan, and more can all be catered for. While the Latitude Restaurant is the focal point for much of the dining, guests are treated to surprise dining experiences in quiet parts of the island to create a truly memorable stay.

For more information and enquiries on Banwa Private Island’s exceptional culinary experiences, please contact the Reservations team through mobile/WhatsApp: +639178882864, send an email to reservations@banwaprivateisland.com or visit website at www.banwaprivateisland.com.

Practical and Stylish: The CHERRY Aqua Smart TV FHD 43”

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If you want the perfect combination of practicality and style, then the CHERRY Aqua Smart TV FHD 43” stands out in the realm of home entertainment. With its design that complements modern areas, this TV gets integrated in a seamless way. Currently, style icon Heart Evangelista brings attention to the sleek profile and capabilities of the CHERRY Aqua Smart TV FHD 43”. Appreciate how this product adds elegance to your space, making it both a gadget and a statement piece.

Heart has shown her delight on how this item enhances her viewing experience, whether she’s watching her favorite shows or streaming films. The CHERRY Aqua Smart TV FHD 43” has 1920 x 1080 full HD display with 60Hz refresh rate for that maximum viewing experience. Watch Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video since it runs Android TV with a system version Android 11. Moreover, it has 2.4GHz/5GHz Wi-Fi/ Bluetooth 5.1 and 74W Rated Power/ 100-240V.

The CHERRY Aqua Smart TV FHD 43” is more than just a TV, it’s an upgrade to your lifestyle. Whether you consider yourself a movie enthusiast, a gamer, or simply finding a stylish addition to your space similar to Heart Evangelista, the CHERRY Aqua Smart TV FHD 43” is the investment for everyone seeking for an upgraded entertainment experience.

Upgrade your viewing and explore endless entertainment in the comfort of your home for only PHP 14,999!

For more information, visit: CHERRY Shop PH: www.cherryshop.com.ph

MMDA to Host First-Ever Road to Zero Waste Summit: Closing the Loop Towards a Circular Economy

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The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to host its Road to Zero Waste Summit, the first and largest event focused on sustainable waste management and the promotion of a circular economy. To be held at the Unilab Bayanihan Center in Pasig City on November 5 and 6, and open to the public with free admission. Registration starts at 9 AM and will accommodate participants until 7 PM on Day 1, and 5 PM on Day 2. Participants are expected not only to learn about proper solid waste management but also to bring home eco-products for free and other exciting giveaways from our partners and the MMDA.

With the theme "Closing the Loop Towards a Circular Economy," the summit aims to spotlight innovative waste management solutions that can address Metro Manila’s solid waste challenges, leading to long-term sustainability. From product exhibits to panel discussions, the event will feature a series of interactive activities and network sharing opportunities designed to raise public awareness on waste technologies and community-based interventions, creating a unified roadmap to increase waste diversion in Metro Manila. This initiative also aims to connect our communities and recyclers, culminating in a shared advocacy for a zero-waste and sustainable future together.

What to Expect:

● Exhibits & Demos: Witness various waste recycling industries showcase their latest products, services, and innovations in solid waste processing. Expect demonstrations of technologies that can potentially be adopted by our local government units (LGUs), barangays, and even households, helping them manage waste more effectively.

● Engaging Forums: Learn from reputable resource speakers across various sectors as they tackle topics such as Sustainability in the Circular Economy, SWM Best Practices, and Green Advocacy for Recycled Products. Participants will be able to engage in all these discussions through dedicated Q&A sessions.

● Network Mapping: Discover MMDA's Road to Zero Waste roadmap and gain insights into Metro Manila’s evolving Community-Level Materials Recovery Systems (MRS). Attendees will learn more about proper segregation and existing waste diversion points that serve various recyclers across Metro Manila.

● IEC Campaigns: Take part in awareness campaigns aimed at promoting proper waste segregation, resource valuation, and innovative waste-handling techniques like composting, plastic recycling, and discovering end-of-life products. Participants will learn and know more about what they can contribute from their workplace, all the way to their homes, all for the environment.

MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando S. Artes invites the public to take part in this landmark event, stating, “The Road to Zero Waste Summit marks an important step in Metro Manila’s journey towards sustainability. It’s a platform for sharing knowledge, building networks, and fostering collaboration that will guide us toward a cleaner, greener, and more resilient metropolis. We urge everyone to join us in shaping the future of solid waste management.”

Who Should Attend?

The summit will bring together a diverse set of participants including LGUs, National Government Agencies (NGAs), solid waste management associations, universities, private sector companies and social enterprises, waste recyclers, and sanitary landfill operators. Attendees will gain access to a wealth of information, engage with industry leaders, and explore new ways of integrating sustainable waste management practices into their communities, bridging the gap and taking one step closer to closing our waste loops.

In addition, the summit will feature "Libreng Sakay" routes to ensure ease of access for participants. Shuttle services along Bank Drive, cor. Julia Vargas (landmark: SM Megamall) to the Bayanihan Center will be available during the two-day event.

The MMDA Road to Zero Waste Summit 2024 promises to be a must-attend event for anyone passionate about sustainability, waste management, and shifting to a circular economy in Metro Manila. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this transformative initiative. Because you are part of the solution!

For more information, visit:

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/Fqew8AEzJz5ZksjZ/?mibextid=QwDbR1

Register now at https://tinyurl.com/RZWSummit2024

Walk-ins are also welcome. Visit with your families, friends, neighbors, or organizations. Big groups are also encouraged to join!